Turkic states discuss ways to expand tourism cooperation in Ankara

The 10th Meeting of the Ministers in Charge of Tourism of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) was held in Ankara, Türkiye, on July 9.

Azerbaijan was represented at the event by Fuad Naghiyev, Chairman of the State Tourism Agency.

In his opening speech, Turkish Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy highlighted the growing importance and influence of the Turkic states on the global stage. He noted: “The OTS forms an important dialogue platform among our countries. We must uncover the potential for cooperation, particularly in the field of tourism.”

Expressing his gratitude to the residents of Turkic countries who preferred Türkiye for vacation, the minister noted that in the first five months of 2025 alone, 317,000 tourists from Azerbaijan, 203,000 from Kazakhstan, 79,000 from Kyrgyzstan, 215,000 from Uzbekistan, 58,000 from Hungary, 106,000 from the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, as well as about 70,000 citizens of Turkmenistan travelled to Türkiye.

The minister recalled that Türkiye ranked fourth globally in tourist arrivals, calling it a remarkable achievement. According to 2024 figures, 62.4 million tourists visited the country.

He expressed confidence that these discussions in Ankara would help build new bridges of friendship among the peoples, adding: “Tourism is not only a contributor to the economy, but also a factor in strengthening intercultural relations between states.”

Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy welcomed Ankara's initiative to be chosen as the "Tourism Capital of the Turkic World in 2026".

Following the speech by OTS Secretary General Kubanychbek Omuraliev, the discussions continued behind closed doors.

Ramin Abdullayev

Special correspondent